A river scene with lush green bushes and tall palm trees under a partly cloudy sky.

Where to travel in Africa?

Decision support for your trip to Africa

Decision support for your trip to Africa

Africa, a continent full of fascinating destinations and unforgettable adventures, offers a variety of options for travelers who want to experience nature, culture and untouched wilderness. However, if you are faced with the decision of whether to travel to Uganda, Rwanda or the Republic of Congo, it can be a difficult choice. Each of these countries has its own unique characteristics and features that make it a special destination. Let's take a closer look and find the perfect destination for your unforgettable vacation in Africa.

Written by: Anja Sterker Last updated at: September 30, 2025

Highlights Uganda

Uganda, often referred to as the "Pearl of Africa", is known for its breathtaking scenery, ranging from dense rainforests to picturesque lakes and majestic mountains. One of Uganda's main attractions is undoubtedly the opportunity to observe the endangered mountain gorillas in the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest or the Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. Gorilla trekking tours offer a unique and unforgettable experience in the midst of nature. Uganda also offers the opportunity to see chimpanzees in Kibale Forest National Park, go on safari in Queen Elizabeth National Park or visit the breathtaking Murchison Falls.

Sunrise over lush green hills in Bwindi National Park, Uganda, with a small house visible on a hill.

A mountain gorilla lies amidst lush green vegetation in Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda.

Highlights Rwanda

Rwanda, a small but remarkable country in East Africa, is known for its fascinating natural landscape and the remarkable conservation of mountain gorillas in Volcanoes National Park. Similar to Uganda, Rwanda offers the opportunity to participate in gorilla trekking tours to experience these fascinating creatures in their natural environment. In addition, Rwanda is also home to Nyungwe Forest National Park, which is home to a variety of primate species and rich birdlife. Rwanda's culture is also rich and diverse, with historical sites, traditional dances and hospitable people.

Highlights Republic of Congo

The Republic of Congo is a lesser-known destination, but one that offers unique and unspoiled natural beauty. The Odzala-Kokoua National Park in the northwest of the country is a paradise for nature lovers and adventurers. Here you can go on exciting hikes through the rainforest, observe the rich wildlife and experience the rare lowland gorillas in their natural habitat. The park is also home to forest elephants, chimpanzees and a variety of bird species. For travelers who want to explore authentic Africa off the beaten track, the Republic of Congo is a fascinating choice.

A group of four hikers walking in a river through a dense, tropical rainforest environment.

Which destination is right for me?

The decision for Uganda, Rwanda or the Republic of Congo depends on your personal preferences, interests and also your budget. If you are looking for an intense nature experience and gorilla trekking is one of your priorities, Uganda and Rwanda are excellent options. Both countries offer a rich variety of flora and fauna as well as the opportunity to see the fascinating mountain gorillas. However, if you are an adventurous traveler who wants to explore the unknown and experience untouched natural landscapes, the Republic of Congo might be the right choice for you.

However, cost is also a deciding factor that may take some of the weight off your choice of destination:

Uganda

Uganda offers a wide range of owner-managed accommodation with authentic charm and attention to detail. You will find everything from simple guest houses to luxurious lodges. Nevertheless, you won't find pure luxury in Uganda, as you won't find larger lodge groups here. At USD 800, the cost of gorilla permits is significantly cheaper than in Rwanda. So if you are looking for an unforgettable trip but have a limited budget, then Uganda is the right choice for you.

Rwanda

Rwanda generally starts with a higher travel budget, as the gorilla trekking permits alone cost USD 1,500 per person. In addition, many well-known lodge groups such as Wilderness Destination, Singita or One&Only have settled in Rwanda. You are in good hands in Rwanda if you are looking for luxury. Accommodations such as One&Ony Nyungwe House or Bisate Lodge in the Volcanoes National Park will certainly not disappoint you.

Republic of Congo

The most expensive destination is the Republic of Congo. Not because the gorilla permits are even more expensive, but because the country is still very undeveloped for tourism. The Odzala-Kokoua National Park is very remote and can only be reached by charter flight, so there are many logistical challenges here, which are visible in the price. However, if you have the budget available, then a trip to the Republic of Congo is more than worthwhile and will remain in your memory forever.

No matter which country you choose, a trip to Africa promises unforgettable experiences and encounters with nature. Get ready for an adventure full of discoveries and unforgettable moments in one of the world's most fascinating continents.

Experience the magic of Africa with experts who have explored every corner themselves

Your dream holiday, tailor-made by experts.

Our travel consultants not only admire Africa from afar, but also explore the most impressive regions every year to experience the cultures, landscapes and experiences, such as gorilla trekking, at first hand.

From your first enquiry to your return home, we are there for you personally - by phone, email or WhatsApp, whenever you need us. Immerse yourself in the world of gorillas, experience the beauty of Africa and create memories that will last a lifetime. Let's create your next great adventure together!

You might also be interested in

Group of gorillas in a lush, green rainforest, with two adult gorillas and two young ones interacting.

National Parks in Rwanda

7 min read

Rwanda, known as the "Land of a Thousand Hills," is famous not only for its breathtaking landscapes but also for its exceptional national parks. These protected areas offer an impressive variety of flora and fauna, along with unforgettable natural experiences. From the majestic mountain gorillas in Volcanoes National Park to the pristine forests of Gishwati-Mukura National Park, each park has its own unique features that captivate travelers. In this article, we introduce four of Rwanda's most fascinating national parks, which will delight both adventurers and nature enthusiasts....

A young girl with long hair in a green jacket is taking photos of a serene landscape with a pond at sunset.

Rwanda Trip with Children

7 min read

Rwanda, the "Land of a Thousand Hills," offers families the perfect blend of adventure, nature, and culture. From thrilling safaris and educational trekking tours to hands-on workshops and heartwarming visits to traditional villages, this East African gem delivers unforgettable experiences for travelers of all ages. With short travel distances and a variety of family-friendly activities, a trip to Rwanda promises cherished memories for both young explorers and adults alike....

A woman walking down a dirt road in Uganda, balancing a blue bucket on her head with a second bucket inside, wearing a colorful patterned dress.

Entebbe

1 min read

The city of Entebbe is located on the northern bank of Lake Victoria and about 35 kilometres south of the capital city of Kampala. This is also the location of the international airport, which is served by numerous airlines such as Brussels Airlines, KLM and Qatar Airways. Often, the city is seen only as a starting or ending point of a round trip through Uganda. However, if you want to spend a little more time in the city, you can visit the Botanical Garden and marvel at numerous plant species during a walk. The Uganda Wildlife Education Center (UWEC) is strongly committed to animal conservati...